2015-Apr-16

Igniting the Imaginations of the Next Generation

In the next few weeks, young female students from local schools, Cisco Networking Academies and non-profit organizations will spend a day with us, learning about technology. The girls, ages 13 to 18, will talk to Cisco employees about technical careers. They’ll see what goes on in a data center and a lab. And they’ll learn about the Internet of Everything (IoE).

It's part of our Girls Power Tech global mentoring initiative, and it's in celebration of International Girls in ICT Day. Employees in more than 80 Cisco locations, in more than 50 countries, are signing up to volunteer for an exciting and rewarding day of mentoring.

Why are we so passionate about this? Let's hear from some of the people organizing the activities. They tell us what drives them and why this is so important.

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"At Cisco, we want to change the world. It's part of our culture. Girls Power Tech will pave the way for the next female techies."

Belindia Scott, Global SP Services, United States

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"Our role is to connect the unconnected—what better way to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to access technology."

Emma Broadbent, APJ Sales, Australia

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"Today girls see technology all around them; it's part of their daily lives. And they are curious about the possibilities. Empowering girls to explore technology leads to a more innovative community."

Shahd Attar, Services, Saudi Arabia

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"A young student who participated last year told me that her visit to Cisco led to her decision to study engineering. We helped her follow her dreams."

Graciela Fallas Quesada, Americas Sales, Costa Rica

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"I didn’t have great career advisors or mentors as I was growing up and never thought I could work in a company like Cisco. I am fortunate to have been at Cisco for the three years, and I want to give back. As Gandhi said: "Be the change you want to see in the world."

Arti Patel, EMEAR Sales, United Kingdom

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"I have been in these girls' shoes. I'm a Network Academy graduate, and Cisco shaped my future.  After a few weeks at the academy, I decided I wanted to be a network engineer. The experience ignited my passion for technology and its role in improving society."

Lindsay Simancek, Americas Sales, United States

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"Women can bring new ideas and thinking. And for women themselves, a technology career can make them more confident, and their confidence and wisdom will be passed down to their children."

Le An, Greater China Sales, China

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"Students from underprivileged schools in Kenya will meet with mentors, use our technology and learn about careers. I'm passionate about changing the status quo of poor communities and inspiring them to believe in a brighter future. That starts by listening to voices that are unheard and helping them recognize their potential."

Hital Muraj, Operations, Kenya

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"By mentoring we are helping the next generation make informed career choices that could better their lives in the long run. Besides, having more girls in technology means building a better Internet of Things."

Rohini Kamath, Government Affairs, India

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